It is absorbed from the intestine through lymph. It circulates through the body plasma in association with Beta-lipoprotien. It is stored in the tissues and excreted as metabolites in the bile and urine.

Vitamin E is necessary in small amounts and is available in common foodstuffs like green leafy vegetables. Vitamin E prevents chemical oxidation, hence it acts mainly as an antioxidant. It is also important for the proper function of nerves and muscles. Vitamin E requirements are increased in intestinal disease, hepatic disease, pancreatic disorders and surgical removal of stomach.
Prolonged treatment with vitamin E increases the survival time of erythrocytes in G-6-PD deficiency. The risk of retrolental fibroplasia in infants exposed to high concentrations of oxygen can be reduced by oral vitamin E.

Supplemental doses 10-30 mg/day may be given to patients at risk of developing deficiency. To increase the survival time of erythrocytes in G-6-PD deficiency: 100 mg/day of vitamin E should be given.The risk of retrolental fibroplasia in infants exposed t